The Essential

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H. max

max. altitude

D+

Departure

Saturday, September 26 at 8:00 a.m.
The start will be in Tramelan, behind the Marelle multipurpose hall.

Time limits and time barriers

The maximum time to reach the first aid station in Cortébert is 2 hours (10:00).
The maximum time to reach the 2nd aid station at the Central Square is 3 hours (11:00).
Maximum time to reach the 3rd supply point at Chasseral is 5 hours (13:00).
The maximum time to reach the 4th aid station at Mt-Crosin is 7.5 hours (3:30 PM).
The entire route must be completed in a maximum of 9 hours (17:00).

ITRA Points

By completing the race, you will earn 2 ITRA points

Race regulations

Read the 2026 race regulations

Supplies

5 aid stations. 4 full aid stations at Cortébert, Place Centrale, Chasseral and Mt-Crosin and 1 liquid only at Villeret.

Fees and registration conditions

CHF 65.- from 01 to 28 February 2026.
CHF 80.- from 01.03 to 23.09.26.
CHF 95.- on site.

Bib collection and briefing

On Saturday, September 26, 2026 in Tramelan at the Salle de la Marelle between 5:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. with your identity document.

Briefing 5 minutes before departure, at 07:55.

Required equipment

A personal cup is required for use at aid stations.
There are no cups provided at the aid stations.
A headlamp is also mandatory.

Recommended equipment

- Backpack
- Water reservoir, min 1l
- Survival blanket
- Whistle
- Adhesive elastic bandage for use in slinging or strapping
- Waterproof jacket to withstand bad weather in the mountains

Small food reserve (bars, gels)
Mobile phone

If you choose to use poles, you must have them with you throughout the race.

The Essential is a route that condenses the most beautiful sites of the Bernese Jura, hence its name.

This Essential route demands good physical preparation for those wishing to take on a challenge by covering a distance close to a marathon, but in the heart of nature, with the added challenge of significant elevation gain.
After a steep climb to the ridge, a rapid and challenging descent to Cortébert awaits, which can be quite demanding.
The trail then leads you to Chasseral and its antenna before descending through the magnificent Combe-Grède via a technical path.
From St-Imier, the route ascends via the Col du Sergent to reach the Mt-Crosin wind farm and its welcome refreshment station.
A final push takes you to Tramelan and the finish line.